Croatia vs Ghana 2026 World Cup: Modrić’s fifth World Cup — can the Black Stars cope without Kudus in Group L?

Croatia vs Ghana 2026 World Cup — At 22:00 BST on 27 June, Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia hosts this Group L Round 2 encounter. Luka Modrić — aged 40 and at his fifth World Cup — leads Croatia’s charge against a Ghana side devastated by the absence of Mohammed Kudus. Can Jordan Ayew and Thomas Partey fill the void left by their talisman? And can Modrić write another chapter in his legendary career?

Match Information

Where to watch?

In England, BBC and ITV broadcast the 2026 World Cup. Check their online schedules for the 27 June match starting at 22:00 BST. Free streaming via BBC iPlayer and ITVX.

Croatia Analysis: Modrić’s Fifth World Cup

Luka Modrić: 40 Years Old, Fifth World Cup

Luka Modrić is at his fifth World Cup at the age of 40 — a staggering achievement. The AC Milan midfielder won the Ballon d’Or in 2018 and drove Croatia to the World Cup final that same year. His football intelligence, tempo control and incisive passing remain elite. Against a Ghana side weakened by Kudus’s absence, Modrić has the platform to produce one of the defining performances of this tournament. Croatia’s system still revolves around him — and for good reason.

Gvardiol and Kovačić: Croatia Beyond One Man

Joško Gvardiol (Manchester City) is one of the finest centre-backs in world football. Commanding and composed, he is the backbone of Croatia’s defensive unit. Against Jordan Ayew and Iñaki Williams, Gvardiol should hold firm. Mateo Kovačić (Manchester City) provides relentless energy and ball-winning that perfectly complements Modrić’s creativity.

Ghana Analysis: The Black Stars Without Kudus

Kudus Out: Ghana’s Biggest Blow

Mohammed Kudus was Ghana’s most creative attacker — capable of single-handedly changing games. A quadriceps injury ruled him out of the entire 2026 World Cup. For Ghana, it is a devastating loss. Without Kudus, the Black Stars lack a player who can create chances individually, and their attacking play becomes far more predictable.

Jordan Ayew and Partey: Carrying the Load

Captain Jordan Ayew steps into the spotlight. An energetic, combative forward with good technical ability, his work rate and leadership make him Ghana’s primary offensive threat. In midfield, Thomas Partey (Villarreal) is Ghana’s most experienced player — his ball-winning and positional awareness give the Black Stars defensive solidity. On the flank, Iñaki Williams brings pace and directness that can cause problems in transition. Collectively, however, Ghana’s attack is a significantly lesser threat without Kudus.

Ghana’s Game Plan

Ghana’s manager will likely set up in a deep defensive shape to limit Modrić and Kovačić’s space. The plan: defend compactly, stay disciplined, and exploit transitions through Williams’s pace and set pieces. Against Croatia’s quality, it remains a tall order — but the Black Stars will fight for every minute.

Head-to-Head Record

Croatia and Ghana have an extremely limited head-to-head record in official competition. Their 2026 World Cup Group L meeting is one of the most significant encounters in their respective international histories. Croatia’s quality and the added weaknesses in Ghana’s camp due to Kudus and Salisu’s absences make the Vatreni the clear favourites — but Ghana’s collective mentality should not be dismissed.

Prediction: Croatia 2-1 Ghana

Croatia are the clear favourites. Modrić’s creative orchestration, Gvardiol’s defensive wall and Kovačić’s relentless energy give Croatia a comprehensive advantage. Our prediction: Croatia 2-1 Ghana, with Croatia in control but Ghana grabbing a goal through Ayew or a set piece. This match is more competitive than Croatia vs Panama — do not underestimate the Black Stars.

FAQ